The ex-Frances Crowley trained Kempes came good on his second hurdles start when out-staying Puyol to win the Stillorgan Orchard maiden Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The winner made a mess of the last flight when disputing the lead, but Ruby Walsh soon had the gelding back on an even keel and galvanised him in the closing stages to win going away by 2 1/2 lengths.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said: 'It is great to have Ruby back, he was very strong. The experience of a previous hurdle run was a big help to this fellow. He stays well and the Ballymore properties Hurdle at Cheltenham would be a long-term target, but we will look for a winner's race at home next.'